Communication system

ABSTRACT

A communication system for a mobile computing device that provides for personal communication. A housing of the communication system provides a receiving aperture for accepting the mobile computing device. Insertion of the mobile computing device into the housing connects the mobile computing device with the communication system and/or the audio transmission system. Upon connection with the communication system, the mobile computing device outputs audio to the external audio output. The mobile computing device also receives audio captured by the audio input. Insertion of the mobile computing device and/or connection to the audio transmission system also enables particular features of the mobile computing device. Removal of the mobile computing device disables particular features of the mobile computing device. Insertion of the mobile computing device also alerts third parties of the user&#39;s usage of the mobile computing device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and is a continuation in part ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/897,004 entitled “CommunicationSystem” that was filed on Feb. 14, 2018 which is hereby incorporated byreference.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable.

REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX

Not Applicable.

RESERVATION OF RIGHTS

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialwhich is subject to intellectual property rights such as but not limitedto copyright, trademark, and/or trade dress protection. The owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and TrademarkOffice patent files or records but otherwise reserves all rightswhatsoever.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION I. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a communication system that provides anauditory communication system for allowing private conversation througha mobile computing device, such as a tablet, a phone, a smart phone, alaptop, or other computing device. The present invention also enablesand disables features based upon insertion of the mobile computingdevice into the communication system. The present invention alsotransmits alerts to staff and other contacts when the user has insertedthe mobile computing device into the computing system.

While mobile computing devices may provide an internal speaker andinternal microphone, the internal speaker and microphone of the mobilecomputing device do not allow private conversation. Instead, theinternal speaker and microphone broadcast the conversation to theoutside world. The mobile computing device does not provide the privateconversation allowed by a telephone.

A separate device is required to allow for private conversation with amobile computing device. A separate headset with microphone and speakeris required to provide a private conversation. Such a separate headsetis a usable commodity that is an expense for the controlled environment.Each individual resident of the controlled environment facility wouldrequire the individual headsets. The headsets could be lost, misplaced,confiscated, or otherwise rendered not usable by the resident. Theresident would then require another headset for private conversation onthe mobile computing device. Each additional headset would be an extraexpense for the controlled environment facility or the resident.

The present invention provides a device and system for privateconversation that enables usage by more than one resident. The presentinvention provides for a single housing that can be reused by theindividual residents.

The present invention replaces the traditional headsets that plug intothe mobile computing device. Instead, the user inserts the mobilecomputing device into the housing to enable a private conversation.Insertion of the mobile computing device into the housing connects themobile computing device with an audio data transmission system.Insertion of the mobile computing device within the housing activatesthe audio data transmission system. The mobile computing device thenreceives the audio captured by the audio input. The mobile computingdevice transmits audio to be played to the external audio output.

In one embodiment, a plug located within the housing serves as the audiodata transmission system. The mobile computing device plugs into a plugconnected to a conductor, such as a coaxial cable or other audio cable,attached to an audio output device and an audio input device. The audioinput device and the audio output device enable private conversationthrough the mobile computing device.

In another embodiment, the audio data transmission system may be awireless system, including but not limited to a transmitter, receiver,and/or transceiver. The mobile computing device wirelessly transmits andwirelessly receives the audio data between the mobile computing deviceand the audio input and the audio output. Such a wireless system may notrequire a plug inserted into the port. In such an embodiment, insertionof the mobile computing device into the housing connects the mobilecomputing device to the communication system.

The present invention removes the need for a resident to maintain andkeep control of a functioning headset. The present invention alsoreplaces the need for residents and the controlled environment facilityto purchase individual headsets for each resident. A single housing ofthe present invention can accommodate multiple residents withoutrequiring purchases of individual headsets and replacement headsets.

In one embodiment, the communication system tracks the location of themobile computing device and the user. The housing is located within aknown area within the controlled environment. Because a user will beassigned an identified mobile computing device, the communication systemcan determine which user has connected to the communication system. Thesystem knows the user assigned to the mobile computing device and thelocation of the housing. The system can then track the location of theuser via insertion of the mobile computing device within the housing.The system can also send an alert to a correspondent, such as anotification to personnel that a user is present at a location. Thesystem can also alert a user's contacts that a user is available forcommunication.

II. Description of the Known Art

Certain problems exist with the known art. The controlled environmentfacility may be required to provide a resident with a method ofcommunicating with others outside of the facility. The known headsetsrequire each resident to maintain a properly functioning headset.

The resident or the controlled environment facility would be required topurchase a headset for each resident. These headsets may break, be lost,confiscated, rendered not usable for the resident, or otherwise fail.The resident or the controlled environment facility would then berequired to purchase a replacement headset. These headsets require anongoing expense for continued usage.

The controlled environment facility may also have difficulty trackingthe mobile computing device and the users. The controlled environmentfacility may also have difficulty identifying the availability of a userfor communication.

Therefore, the present invention is needed to provide a uniquecommunication system that increases safety and reduces costs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a communication system for a personalcomputing device that provides for personal communication. Such personalcomputing devices include but are not limited to a tablet, a phone, or asmart phone. A housing of the communication system provides a receivingaperture for accepting the mobile computing device. The user inserts themobile computing device into the housing.

The communication system performs particular functions upon insertion ofthe mobile computing device into the housing. Insertion of the mobilecomputing device into the housing activates or deactivates particularfeatures and functions of the mobile computing device. Insertion of themobile computing device into the housing may also send an alert tocorrespondents, including but not limited to personnel, staff, or otherthird parties identifying the location of the user and the mobilecomputing device. The communication system may also alert contacts ofthe user upon insertion of the mobile computing device into the housing.Such alert notifies the contacts that the user is available forcommunication.

An upper wall and lower wall of the housing guide the mobile computingdevice into the housing towards an interior wall. A plug protrudes fromthe interior wall. The housing aligns a port of the mobile computingdevice with the plug within the receiving aperture of the housing. Theplug of one embodiment is a combination plug for both an audio input andat least one audio output. Such plugs include but are not limited to anaudio plug, a USB plug, a Lightning plug, or other plug that insertsinto the port. The ports include but are not limited to an audio port, acharging port, a USB port, a micro-USB port, a lightning port, or otherport capable of transmitting audio.

The plug secures to a conductor such as a coaxial cable, audio cable, orother cable capable of transmitting audio. The conductor conducts theaudio signal between the mobile computing device, the audio output, andthe audio input. The conductor transfers the audio signal from the audioinput to the mobile computing device. The conductor also transfers theaudio signal from the mobile computing device to the audio output. Theconductor includes but is not limited USB cable or other digital datacable. In another embodiment, the mobile computing device communicateswirelessly through wireless transmissions. Such wireless transmissionsmay include but not limited to Blue Tooth communication.

In one embodiment, the audio input is a microphone or other audiocapturing device. The audio input may be an earbud, a headset, amicrophone, or other audio capturing device that will capture audio andtransmit the audio to the mobile computing device.

The audio output of one embodiment is at least one speaker or a set ofspeakers. The audio output may be a pair of headphones, a headset,earbuds, a personal speaker, or other speakers.

The audio input and audio output may be implemented in a single device.Such devices providing both audio input and audio output includes ahandset, phone receiver, a pair of headphones, a headset, and earbuds.

The housing of one embodiment secures the mobile computing device withinthe housing. The walls and guide fingers of the housing guide the mobilecomputing device into the housing. The walls and guide fingers alsoalign the port of the mobile computing device towards the plug. The pluginserts into the port of the mobile computing device.

The conductor and the plug within the housing transmits the signalsbetween the audio input and the mobile computing device. The conductorand the plug within the housing also transmits the signals between theaudio output and the mobile computing device. The conductor within thehousing runs to the audio input and the audio output. The conductorsends the electric signal between the audio input, the audio output, andthe mobile computing device.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a system for privatecommunication in a controlled environment.

It is another object of the present invention to reduce the use ofindividual components required for each person using the system.

It is another object of the present invention to provide acommunity-based solution for private communication.

It is another object of the present invention to reduce costs associatedwith providing each user a set of headphones with microphone.

It is another object of the present invention to reduce the number ofitems to maintain at the controlled environment facility.

It is another object of the present invention to align the port of themobile computing device with the plug to allow for the communication.

It is another object of the present invention to protect thecommunication within a housing.

It is another object of the present invention to identify the locationof an identified user.

It is another object of the present invention to identify the locationof a mobile computing device.

It is another object of the present invention to alert correspondents ofa user's location.

It is another object of the present invention to alert contacts of auser that the user is available for communication.

These and other objects and advantages of the present invention, alongwith features of novelty appurtenant thereto, will appear or becomeapparent by reviewing the following detailed description of theinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the following drawings, which form a part of the specification andwhich are to be construed in conjunction therewith, and in which likereference numerals have been employed throughout wherever possible toindicate like parts in the various views:

FIG. 1 is an environmental view of one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is a front environmental view thereof;

FIG. 3 is a top environmental view thereof;

FIG. 4 is an environmental view thereof;

FIG. 5 is a right side view thereof;

FIG. 6 is a top view thereof;

FIG. 7 is a front view thereof;

FIG. 8 is an environmental view thereof;

FIG. 9 is a sectional view of one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a tracking process of one embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an activation process of one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an activation process of one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an alert process of one embodiment of thepresent invention; and

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an alert process of one embodiment of thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows the communication system 100 for a mobile computing device118, such as tablet, that provides for personal communication. Themobile computing device 118 includes but is not limited to, a tablet, aphone, a smart phone, a laptop, or other computing device. A housing 102of the communication system 100 provides a receiving aperture 104 foraccepting the mobile computing device 118. The user inserts the mobilecomputing device 118 into the housing 102. An upper wall 96, lower wall98, and recessed front wall 92 of the housing 102 guide the mobilecomputing device 118 into the housing 102 towards an interior wall 94.

The upper wall 96, lower wall 98, recessed front wall 92, and inner wall94 define the receiving aperture 104. The upper wall 96, lower wall 98,recessed wall 92, and the inner wall 94 direct the mobile computingdevice 118 towards the plug 108.

Guide fingers 110, 112 maintain the mobile computing device 118 withinthe receiving aperture 104. Upper guide finger 110 extends below upperwall 96. Lower guide finger 112 extends above lower wall 98. The guidefingers 110, 112 are located laterally from the recessed front wall 92.The receiving aperture 104 separates the guide fingers 110, 112 from therecessed front wall 92.

The guide fingers 110, 112 maintain the mobile computing device 118within the housing 102. The guide fingers extend at least partiallyacross the front surface of the mobile computing device 118. The guidefingers 110, 112 limit forward movement of the mobile computing device118 from the housing 102.

The receiving aperture 104 provides sufficient depth to secure themobile computing device 118 within the housing 102. The mobile computingdevice inserts into the receiving aperture 104 along the longitudinalaxis. The longitudinal depth of the receiving aperture 104 maintains themobile computing device 118 within the receiving aperture 104 to limitthe possibility that the mobile computing device falls out the side ofthe receiving aperture 104.

The user inserts the mobile computing device 118 into the housing 102 toenable a private conversation. Insertion of the mobile computing device118 into the housing 102 connects the mobile computing device 118 withan audio data transmission system 113. Insertion of the mobile computingdevice 118 within the housing 102 activates the audio data transmissionsystem 113. The mobile computing device 102 then receives the audiocaptured by the audio input 122. The mobile computing device 118transmits audio to be played to the external audio output 120.

In one embodiment, a plug located within the housing serves as the audiodata transmission system 113. The mobile computing device 118 plugs intoa plug connected to a conductor, such as a coaxial cable or other audiocable, attached to an audio output device and an audio input device. Theaudio input device and the audio output device enable privateconversation through the mobile computing device.

In another embodiment, the audio data transmission system 113 may be awireless system. The mobile computing device 118 wirelessly transmitsand wirelessly receives the audio data between the mobile computingdevice 118 and the audio input 122 and the audio output 120. Such awireless system may not require a plug inserted into the port.

A plug 108 protrudes from the interior wall 94. The housing 102 aligns aport of the mobile computing device 118 with the plug 108 within thereceiving aperture 104 of the housing 102. The plug 108 of oneembodiment is a combination plug for both an audio input and at leastone audio output.

Such plugs 108 include but are not limited to an audio plug, a USB plug,a Lightning plug, or other plug that inserts into the port. The portsinclude but are not limited to an audio port, a charging port, a USBport, a micro-USB port, a lightning port, or other port capable oftransmitting and receiving audio.

The plug 108 secures to a conductor 116 that conducts a signal, such asan audio signal, an electronic signal, or other signal capable oftransferring audio, between the mobile computing device 118, the audiooutput 120, and the audio input 122. The conductor 116 enables the audiosignal to travel from the audio input 122 to the mobile computing device118. The conductor 116 also allows the audio signal to travel from themobile computing device to the audio output 120. The conductor 116includes but is not limited to an audio cable, USB cable or otherdigital data cable.

In one embodiment, the audio input 122 is a microphone or other audiocapturing device. The audio input 122 may be an earbud, a headset, amicrophone, or other audio capturing device that will capture audio andtransmit the audio to the mobile computing device.

The audio output 120 of one embodiment is at least one speaker or a setof speakers. The audio output 120 may be a pair of headphones, aheadset, earbuds, a personal speaker, or other speakers.

The audio input 122 and audio output 120 may be implemented in a singledevice. Such devices providing both audio input and audio outputincludes a handset 114, a pair of headphones, a headset, and earbuds.

The housing 102 of one embodiment secures the mobile computing device118 within the housing 102. The walls 92, 94, 96, 98 and guide fingers110, 112 of the housing 102 guide the mobile computing device 118 intothe housing 102. The walls 92, 94, 96, 98 and guide fingers 110, 112also align the port of the mobile computing device 118 with the plug108. The plug 108 inserts into the port of the mobile computing device118.

The conductor 116 and the plug 108 within the housing 102 transmit thesignals between the audio input 122 and the mobile computing device. Theconductor 116 and the plug 108 within the housing 102 transmit thesignals between the audio output 120 and the mobile computing device.The conductor 116 within the housing 102 runs to the audio input 122 andthe audio output 120 of handset 114. The conductor 116 sends theelectric signal between the audio input 122, the audio output 120, andthe mobile computing device 118.

FIG. 2 shows a front view of the communication system 100. Mobilecomputing device 118 inserts into the receiving aperture 104 of thehousing 102. The housing 102 aligns the port 124 with plug 108.Inserting plug 108 into port 124 of mobile computing device 118activates communication of the mobile computing device with the audioinput and the audio output of handset 114. The conductor 116 transfersthe signals between the mobile computing device 118 and the audio inputand audio output of handset 114. The ports include but are not limitedto an audio port, a charging port, a USB port, a micro-USB port, alightning port, or other port capable of transmitting audio.

FIG. 3 shows the lock 106 that secures the housing 102 and handset 114to a wall of the controlled environment facility. The lock 106 limitsaccess of the residents to the internal components within the housing102. The lock 106 is placed within housing 102 to enable insertion ofmobile computing device 118 within housing 102.

FIG. 4 shows the mobile computing device 118 within housing 102. Pluginserts into the port of the mobile computing device 118. The conductor116 transfers the electrical signals between the audio output 120 andthe audio input 122 within the mobile computing device 118. Upper guidefinger 110 and lower guide finger 112 extend across the face 119 ofmobile computing device 118. The upper guide finger 110 and lower guidefinger 112 secure the mobile computing device 118 within the housing102.

FIG. 5 shows a side view of the mobile computing device 118 insertedwithin housing 102. The walls 92, 96, 98 guide the mobile computingdevice 118 within the receiving aperture of housing 102. The walls 92,96, 98 also guide the port of the mobile computing device 118 to theplug within housing 102. The handset 114 secured to conductor 116communicates with the mobile computing device. The housing 102 holds thereceiver 114 for storage upon the housing.

FIG. 6 shows a top view of the mobile computing device 118 inserted intothe housing 102. The lock 107 secures the housing 102 to the walls ofthe facility as discussed above. The lock 107 secures the components ofthe communication system within the housing 102.

The housing remains secure to avoid usage of external power cables. Suchan embodiment enables the housing to be installed at any locationwithout requiring a power source. In other embodiments using wirelesscommunication, an internal power source such as a battery may beinstalled within the housing. In some embodiments, a charging system iscoupled to the housing to enable charging of the mobile computing devicewhen fully inserted into the housing.

Eliminating the need for external power cables provides a safety featurefor the correctional facility. The lack of external power cablessimplifies the installation process. The lack of external power cablesalso eliminates an inmate's ability to weaponize or otherwise use theexternal power cables towards ill deeds.

FIG. 7 shows the mobile computing device 118 inserted into the housing102. The plug is inserted into the port. The conduit 118 transmits thesignals to the handset 114.

FIGS. 8 and 9 show the handset 114 and the audio input 122 and the audiooutput 120. The conductor 116 and plug 108 have been removed from thehousing to provide additional detail concerning the conductor 116. Theconductor 116 connects the plug to both the audio input 122 and theaudio output 120 of the handset 114. The plug 108 inserts into the port124 of the mobile computing device 118.

The housing of one embodiment has been shown and described as having awired connection with conductor 116. The communication of one embodimentprovides for a wireless connection between the mobile computing deviceand the audio input and audio output. The audio input 122 and audiooutput 120 communicate wirelessly with the mobile computing device insuch an embodiment. Such wireless connection may be accomplished withWIFI, Bluetooth, or other wireless communication.

In such a wireless embodiment, the plug may not be present within thehousing. The wireless connection transmits the audio between the mobilecomputing device and the audio input and the audio output. In such anembodiment, the audio input and audio output may be secured to thehousing to eliminate loss, destruction, or otherwise incapacitating theaudio input and audio output. Securing the audio input and the audiooutput to the housing limits removal of the audio input and the audiooutput. Such attachment of the audio input and the audio output alsolimits loss, theft, destruction, or other incapacitation of the audioinput and the audio output.

Because additional mobile computing devices may be in use at thecorrectional facility, insertion of the mobile computing device into thehousing activates the connection of the mobile computing device with theaudio input and the audio output. The communication system detects thatthe mobile computing device is present within the housing. Detection ofthe mobile computing device within the housing connects the mobilecomputing device to the audio input and the audio output.

The communication system detects the mobile computing device within thehousing. In one embodiment, the communication system activates featuresof the mobile computing device upon detecting presence of the mobilecomputing device within the housing. Such detection of insertion of themobile computing device can occur through insertion of the plug into theport.

The plug of one embodiment is a combination plug for both an audio inputand at least one audio output. Such plugs include but are not limited toan audio plug, a USB plug, a Lightning plug, or other plug that insertsinto the port. Such plugs may provide audio communication capabilitiesand/or charging capabilities. The ports include but are not limited toan audio port, a charging port, a USB port, a micro-USB port, alightning port, or other port capable of transmitting audio or chargingthe mobile computing device.

In the embodiments that do not provide a plug, the communication systemimplements other methods of detecting the mobile computing device. Suchdetection methods include location-based detection. The communicationsystem detects placement of the mobile computing device in an identifiedlocation. Such detection activates the wireless connection with theaudio input and the audio output.

Such detection methods include but are not limited to GPS location. Thecommunication system may detect the GPS coordinates of the mobilecomputing device. The GPS coordinates of the mobile computing device mayinstruct the system that the mobile computing device is installed withinthe housing to activate features or for usage with the audio input andthe audio output. To provide additional confirmation that the mobilecomputing device is installed within the housing, the communicationsystem may determine the orientation of the mobile computing device witha gyroscope or other device to determine the status of the mobilecomputing device.

The system could also determine the location of the mobile computingdevice by requiring a picture of a location identifier. Such a locationidentifier may be a bar code or other image recognizable by thecommunication system. Recognition of the location identifier confirmsthat the mobile computing device is installed within the housing.

In another embodiment, the communication system may emit a connectsignal detected by the mobile computing device. Such a connect signalmay include but is not limited to an ultrasonic signal, data, or otherinformation received by the mobile computing device. The mobilecomputing connects to the audio input and the audio output upondetection of the connect signal.

In addition to detecting the insertion of a plug into the port, thesystem may also confirm that the mobile computing device has beeninserted into the housing. The housing of one embodiment charges themobile computing device upon insertion of the mobile computing deviceinto the housing. The system of one embodiment detects the insertion byidentifying that the mobile computing device is charging. Such chargingcan be detected by the mobile computing device or by detecting thatpower system within the housing is supplying power to the mobilecomputing device.

Another embodiment of the housing may provide a detection device, suchas a switch, toggle, lever, etc. The detection device is positionedwithin the housing at a location wherein the mobile computing contactsthe detection device. The detection device informs the communicationsystem if the mobile computing device is inserted into the housing.

In one embodiment of the present invention, features of the computingdevice are limited until the mobile computing device connects to thecommunication system. Such features include but are not limited toenabling phone call capabilities, enabling video conferencingcapabilities, enabling the camera for pictures, enabling the camera forvideo, transmission of audio captured by the external audio input to themobile computing device, and transmission of audio from the mobilecomputing device to the external audio output.

In one embodiment, the correctional facility may limit functionality ofthe mobile computing device. The correctional facility may limit phonecall capabilities, video conferencing capabilities, functioning of thecamera, and functioning of the microphone. The correctional facility mayonly allow such functions in certain areas of the facility. In such anembodiment, the mobile computing device cannot perform particularfunctions, including, but not limited to, phone calls, videoconferencing, use of the camera for either pictures or movies, and themicrophone until authorized. Such authorization occurs throughconnection to the communication system or insertion of the mobilecomputing device into the housing.

Insertion of the mobile computing device into the housing activates suchfeatures. In another embodiment, connecting the mobile computing deviceto the communication system activates such features. Upon insertion ofthe mobile computing device into the housing or connecting the mobilecomputing device to the communication system, the mobile computingdevice presents the user with options. Such options include phone calls,video conferences, use of the camera, and use of the microphone. Inanother embodiment, the mobile computing device activates phone callcapabilities, video conferencing capabilities, functioning of thecamera, and functioning of the microphone upon insertion of the mobilecomputing device into the housing and/or connecting the mobile computingdevice to the communication system.

The present invention also tracks location of the tablet and the usersof the mobile computing device with the communication system 100.Placement of the mobile computing device 118 within the housing 102activates a tracking system that tracks the location of the mobilecomputing device 118. Connecting the mobile computing device 118 to thecommunication system confirms the location of the mobile computingdevice 118. The communication system also tracks the user that iscurrently using the mobile computing device.

In one embodiment, the user is an inmate of the controlled environment,such as a correctional facility. The facility may require the inmate tocheck out a specific mobile computing device. The facility assigns themobile computing device to an inmate. The system associates the inmatewith the mobile computing device. The system may then track the inmateby determining the location of the mobile computing device.

The housing of the communication system is located at a known location.Connecting the mobile computing device to the communication systemalerts the system that the mobile computing device is located in or nearthe housing. Knowing the location of the mobile communication system,the communication system tracks the location of the mobile computingdevice connected to the communication system. The communication systemtracks both the location of the mobile computing device and the userassociated with the mobile computing device.

The communication system tracks the users associated with the mobilecomputing device connected to the communication system. Residents, suchas inmates, may be assigned to the mobile computing device. Officers ofthe correctional facility may also be assigned to the mobile computingdevice. The communication system tracks those users, such as the inmatesand/or the officers, assigned to the mobile computing device. Such acommunication system provides for an officer tracking system. Thecommunication system also provides for an inmate tracking system.

FIG. 10 shows the tracking functionality of the communication system.The mobile computing device connects to the communication system asshown at Step 200. The communication system detects the mobile computingdevice and the housing to which the mobile computing device connects atStep 202.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the communication systemprovides at least two or more housings installed within a controlledenvironment. The mobile computing device connects to a housing of thecommunication system for communication with other people.

Insertion of the mobile computing device into the housing designates alocation of the mobile computing device. The communication systemidentifies the mobile computing device and the housing to which it isinserted. In one embodiment, each housing is associated with a housingidentifier and a location. The communication system identifies themobile computing device and the housing to which it connects. Thecommunication system locates the user by associating the detected mobilecomputing device with the location of the housing at Step 204.

The communication system of one embodiment stores the location data ofthe users and the mobile computing device. The communication system mayalso store the time of detecting the mobile computing device and theuser assigned to the mobile computing device. The mobile computingdevice of one embodiment records the date and time that the mobilecomputing device is inserted into housing. In another embodiment, themobile computing device records the date and time it connects to acommunication system. In one embodiment the mobile computing device alsorecords a housing identifier of the housing in which the mobilecomputing device is connected or inserted.

In another embodiment, a computer or other server records the date andtime that each mobile computing device is inserted into a housing. Inanother embodiment, the computer or other server records the date andtime each mobile computing device connects to a communication system. Inone embodiment, the computer or server also records a housing identifierof the housing in which the mobile computing device is connected orinserted.

The communication system may also generate a report. The reportidentifies which mobile computing devices are inserted into the housingor housings. The report may also identify the date and time that themobile computing device is inserted into the housing. The report mayalso identify the location of the mobile computing device at the dateand time. The report may also identify the housing in which the mobilecomputing device is inserted/connected to at the time.

These reports may be displayed on the mobile computing device. Thesereports may also be displayed on other computers.

In one embodiment, the mobile computing device captures a picture of theuser when connecting the mobile computing device to the communicationsystem. The camera activates upon connection to the communicationsystem. The camera of the mobile computing device takes a picture of theuser. The communication system then stores the picture of the user. Thecommunication system stores the tracking data, the picture and the timeand location at detecting the mobile computing device and the user. Thetracking data can be stored in a database, storage on a server, or onthe mobile computing device.

FIG. 11 shows the process of activating features of the mobile computingdevice upon connecting the mobile computing device to the communicationsystem. In one embodiment, the mobile computing device inserts into thehousing to connect the mobile commuting device to the communicationsystem at Step 208.

The mobile computing device may connect to the communication systemwirelessly or through a wired connection. The communication systemdetects connection of the mobile computing device with the communicationsystem at Step 210. The communication system connects the external audioinput and the external audio input with the mobile computing device.

As discussed above, the connection of the mobile computing device to thecommunication system may be wired or wireless. In the wired connection,the plug inserts into the mobile computing device. The mobile computingdevice detects the connection to allow the system to know that themobile computing device is connected to the communication system. Inanother embodiment, the communication system detects that the plug isinserted into the port of the mobile computing device.

The mobile computing device may also connect wirelessly to the audiotransmission system. In such an embodiment, the mobile computing devicedetects a GPS location that confirms that the mobile computing device iswithin the housing. In another embodiment, the camera of the mobilecomputing device may capture an image of a location identifier.Capturing the location identifier confirms that the mobile computingdevice is installed within the housing. The communication system mayalso detect that mobile computing device is connected to the audiotransmission system. Such connection with the audio transmission informsthe communication system that the mobile computing device is insertedinto the housing.

The mobile computing device connects to the external audio input and theexternal audio output at Step 212 upon insertion of the mobile computingdevice within the housing. The mobile computing device plays audiothrough the external audio output. The mobile computing device alsoreceives audio captured by the audio input.

The mobile computing device may then activate additional features of themobile computing device when installed with the housing, such as thereceiving aperture, at Step 214. Such features that are activated mayinclude but are not limited to the camera, video conferencing, phoneconferencing, use of restricted or otherwise limited use applications,use of social media, access to restricted or otherwise limited usewebsites, etc. In such an embodiment, insertion of the mobile computingdevice into the housing enables software applications and features thatwere restricted for the user prior to insertion into the housing. Theuser may then use the software applications and features that werepreviously restricted upon insertion of the mobile computing device intothe housing.

Additional features activated upon connecting to the audio transmissionsystem include enabling the phone dialer for calls (video and/or voice),enabling video visitation, connecting the mobile computing device to anetwork for network communications, connecting the mobile computingdevice to WIFI for WIFI access, enable user's usage of the mobilecomputing device for a period of time (able to use the mobile computingdevice for a 24 hour period). Removing the mobile computing device fromthe housing may disable such features. For example, removing the mobilecomputing device from the housing may disable the phone dialer for calls(video and/or voice), disable video visitation, disconnect the mobilecomputing device from a network to disable network communications,disconnect the mobile computing device from WIFI to disable WIFI access.The system may also turn off the camera for any video conferencing butallow the communication to continue via audio only.

In one embodiment, the communication system activates features for aperiod of time upon insertion of the mobile computing device into thehousing. Another embodiment activates features for a period of time uponconnecting to the audio transmission system. Such features may beactivated for a period of time after the activation. Another embodimentactivates the features for a period of time beginning after removal ofthe mobile computing device from the receiving aperture of the housing.Another embodiment activates the features for a period of time beginningafter disconnecting from the audio transmission system.

The communication system may also be implemented as a charging station.A charging system may be installed within the housing for charging themobile computing device. The charging system may charge the phonethrough a wired connection or wirelessly. The charging system chargesthe mobile computing device upon insertion of the mobile computingdevice into the housing. In another embodiment, the charging systemcharges the mobile computing device upon full insertion of the mobilecomputing device into the housing.

In the wired connection, a plug may be installed within the housing. Theplug inserts into a charging port of the mobile computing device. Inanother embodiment, the mobile computing device may allow for audioinputs and audio outputs to be plugged into a charging port. In such anembodiment, a single plug can allow for charging and use of the audioinput and audio output.

In another embodiment, the charging system wirelessly charges the mobilecomputing device. The housing provides a wireless charging system thatcharges the mobile computing device when the mobile computing device isinserted into the housing. Such a wireless charging system may be aninductive charging system, infrared, infrared laser, solar, ultrasound,ultrasonic, or other wireless charging system.

FIG. 12 shows the activation of features of the mobile computing deviceupon insertion of the mobile computing device into the housing at InsertMobile Computing Device Step 216. The communication system determinesthat the mobile computing device is inserted within the housing asdescribed above at Detect Insertion Step 218. Such detection ofinsertion of the mobile computing device into the housing includes, butis not limited to, insertion of the plug into a port of the mobilecommunication device, detection of the connection of the mobilecomputing device with the audio transmission system, identification oflocation of the mobile computing device, detecting charging of themobile computing device, and a detection device determining that themobile computing device is inserted into the housing.

Upon detecting insertion of the mobile computing device into thehousing, such as the receiving aperture, the communication systemactivates features of the mobile computing device at Activate FeaturesStep 220. Features activated upon inserting the mobile computing deviceinto the housing include enabling the phone dialer for calls (videoand/or voice), enabling video visitation, connecting the mobilecomputing device to a network for network communications, connecting themobile computing device to WIFI for WIFI access, enable user's usage ofthe mobile computing device for a period of time (able to use the mobilecomputing device for a 24 hour period). Removing the mobile computingdevice from the housing may disable such features. For example, removingthe mobile computing device from the housing may disable the phonedialer for calls (video and/or voice), disable video visitation,disconnect the mobile computing device from a network to disable networkcommunications, disconnect the mobile computing device from WIFI todisable WIFI access. The system may also turn off the camera for anyvideo conferencing but allow the communication to continue via audioonly.

The features activated for inserting the mobile computing device intothe housing may also include the features identified above withconnecting to the audio transmission system. Additional features mayalso be activated.

In one embodiment, the communication system activates features for aperiod of time upon insertion of the mobile computing device into thehousing, such as the receiving aperture. Another embodiment activatesfeatures for a period of time upon connecting to the audio transmissionsystem. Such features may be activated for a period of time after theactivation. Another embodiment activates the features for a period oftime beginning after removal of the mobile computing device from thereceiving aperture of the housing. Another embodiment activates thefeatures for a period of time beginning after disconnecting from theaudio transmission system.

The system may also alert others that a user with a particular mobilecomputing device has inserted the mobile computing device into thehousing or that the mobile computing device has connected to the audiotransmission system as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14. The system may alert orotherwise alert correspondents, including but not limited to personnelor staff of the facility or the user's contacts. Such alerts can trackthe user's location. The alerts can also notify correspondents, such aspersonnel, staff, or a user's contacts, that a particular user isavailable for communication.

FIGS. 13 and 14 show contacting correspondents, such as third parties,upon insertion of the mobile computing device into the housing. Suchcontact may alert correspondents that the user is connected to thecommunication system. The system may automatically connect the user tothe correspondent for communication via voice or video chat. Suchcorrespondents include but are not limited to the facility personnel,staff, and user's contacts.

As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the user inserts the mobile computingdevice at Insert Mobile Computing Device Step 216 and the system detectsthe insertion at Detect Insertion Step 218. FIG. 13 shows the process ofcontacting personnel and staff of the facility. FIG. 14 shows theprocess of contacting the user's contacts.

The communication system contacts the facility's staff and personnel asshown in Alert personnel step 222. The facility personnel contacted maybe identified by the location at which the user is housed, the facilityat which the user is housed, or other personnel. The facility maydesignate which personnel are contacted. The personnel and staff may bealerted to the location, the user, and the time at which the userinserted the mobile computing device into the housing or connected tothe audio transmission system. In other embodiments, the user may beautomatically connected to the personnel or staff for communication.

FIG. 14 shows the process of alerting the user's contacts orautomatically connecting to the user's contacts. The communicationsystem identifies the user's contacts at Identify contacts step 224. Thesystem may store the user's contacts and contact information for thecontacts. The system associates the user's contacts with the user.

The communication system contacts the contacts as shown in Alert User'scontacts step 226. The user's contacts are contacted to alert the user'scontacts that the user is available for communication, including voiceand video chat. Such alert enables user's contacts to more easilycommunicate with the user's contacts. In other embodiments, the user maybe automatically connected to a specific contact. The user may have ascheduled communication such as a conference, interview, meeting, etc.In such situations, the system automatically connects the user with thescheduled correspondent for the scheduled communication.

Such schedules may be set by date and time. Other schedules may be setby the next time the user checks in by inserting the device into thehousing or connecting to the audio transmission system. The userautomatically connects to the scheduled correspondent after insertingthe mobile computing device into the housing or otherwise connecting tothe audio transmission system.

The housing has been described as attaching to the wall of the facility.The housing may be installed on other surfaces. The housing may also beinstalled on a table, within furniture, or on other equipment.

The communication system of the present invention installs within acontrolled environment facility including, but not limited to, a prison,jail, juvenile detention center, or other correctional facility. Thecommunication system may also be installed in other locations. Thecommunication system enables video visitation of users within thecorrectional facility or at the location. The communication systemlimits video visitation to only those visitations connected to thecommunication system. The mobile computing devices of the presentinvention restrict video visitation to specific locations at which thehousing(s) is/are located. Such limitation of the camera and videovisitation eliminates the camera being used in restricted areas such asthe bathrooms, showers, or other off limit areas.

The controlled environment facility, such as the correctional facility,may restrict some software applications and features of the mobilecomputing device. The facility may require that the softwareapplications and features be available to users at designated locations.In such an embodiment, insertion of the mobile computing device into thehousing enables software applications and features that were restrictedfor the user prior to insertion into the housing. The user may then usethe software applications and features that were previously restrictedupon insertion of the mobile computing device into the housing.

The communication system connects the mobile computing device to theexternal audio output and the external audio input. In one embodiment,the mobile computing device is an inmate phone or inmate tablet. Theinmate's device connects to the communication system to allow forcommunication outside of the correctional facility.

From the foregoing, it will be seen that the present invention is onewell adapted to obtain all the ends and objects herein set forth,together with other advantages which are inherent to the structure.

It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are ofutility and may be employed without reference to other features andsubcombinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of theclaims.

As many possible embodiments may be made of the invention withoutdeparting from the scope thereof, it is to be understood that all matterherein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings is to beinterpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

What is claimed is:
 1. A communication system that accepts a mobilecomputing device to enable private communication through the mobilecomputing device, the system comprising: a housing that accepts themobile computing device; a receiving aperture within the housing, thereceiving aperture sized to accept the mobile computing device, whereininsertion of the mobile computing device into the receiving apertureenables at least one feature operated by the mobile computing devicewherein the feature is disabled if the mobile computing device is notinserted within the receiving aperture, wherein the removal of themobile computing device from the receiving aperture disables the featureto limit operation of the mobile computing device by disabling themobile computing device from operating the feature while the mobilecomputing device is outside of the receiving aperture; wherein thefeature is a phone dialer of the mobile computing device, whereinremoval of the mobile computing device from the receiving aperturedisables the phone dialer of the mobile computing device to prevent themobile computing device from dialing a phone number to connect to aphone line when the mobile computing device is outside of the receivingaperture.
 2. A communication system that accepts a mobile computingdevice to enable private communication through the mobile computingdevice, the system comprising: a housing that accepts the mobilecomputing device; a receiving aperture within the housing, the receivingaperture sized to accept the mobile computing device, wherein insertionof the mobile computing device into the receiving aperture enables atleast one feature operated by the mobile computing device wherein thefeature is disabled if the mobile computing device is not insertedwithin the receiving aperture, wherein the removal of the mobilecomputing device from the receiving aperture disables the feature tolimit operation of the mobile computing device by disabling the mobilecomputing device from operating the feature while the mobile computingdevice is outside of the receiving aperture; wherein the feature is acamera on the mobile computing device, wherein removal of the mobilecomputing device from the receiving aperture disables operation of thecamera to prevent the operation of the camera when the mobile computingdevice is outside of the receiving aperture.
 3. The system of claim 2wherein the feature is video conferencing capabilities of the mobilecomputing device, wherein removal of the mobile computing device fromthe receiving aperture disables operation of the video conferencingcapabilities of the mobile computing device to prevent the mobilecomputing device from performing a video conference outside of thereceiving aperture.
 4. A communication system that accepts a mobilecomputing device to enable private communication through the mobilecomputing device, the system comprising: a housing that accepts themobile computing device; a receiving aperture within the housing, thereceiving aperture sized to accept the mobile computing device, whereininsertion of the mobile computing device into the receiving apertureenables at least one feature of the mobile computing device, wherein themobile computing device performs the feature as an operation of themobile computing device, wherein the feature is disabled if the mobilecomputing device is located outside of the receiving aperture; an audiodata transmission system in communication with the housing wherein theinsertion of the mobile computing device into the housing connects thecomputing device with the audio data transmission; a personal speakerexternal of the mobile computing device, the personal speaker connectedto the audio data transmission system wherein the speaker receives asignal through the audio data transmission system; and a camera of themobile computing device, wherein the feature enables usage of the cameraof the mobile computing device, wherein insertion of the mobilecomputing device into the receiving aperture enables the camera andremoving the mobile computing device from the receiving aperturedisables the camera, wherein the camera is disabled when the mobilecomputing device is located outside of the receiving aperture.
 5. Acommunication system that accepts a mobile computing device to enableprivate communication through the mobile computing device, the systemcomprising: a housing that accepts the mobile computing device; areceiving aperture within the housing, the receiving aperture sized toaccept the mobile computing device, wherein insertion of the mobilecomputing device into the receiving aperture enables at least onefeature of the mobile computing device, wherein the mobile computingdevice performs the feature as an operation of the mobile computingdevice, wherein the feature is disabled if the mobile computing deviceis located outside of the receiving aperture; an audio data transmissionsystem in communication with the housing wherein the insertion of themobile computing device into the housing connects the computing devicewith the audio data transmission; a personal speaker external of themobile computing device, the personal speaker connected to the audiodata transmission system wherein the speaker receives a signal throughthe audio data transmission system; wherein the feature enables anetwork communication of the mobile computing device for connecting themobile computing device to a network, wherein insertion of the mobilecomputing device into the receiving aperture enables the networkcommunication of the mobile computing device and removing the mobilecomputing device from the receiving aperture disables the networkcommunication, wherein removal of the mobile computing device from thereceiving aperture disables network communication of the mobilecomputing device to prevent the mobile computing device from connectingto any network while the mobile computing device is outside of thereceiving aperture.
 6. A communication system that accepts a mobilecomputing device to enable private communication through the mobilecomputing device, the system comprising: a housing that accepts themobile computing device; a receiving aperture within the housing, thereceiving aperture sized to accept the mobile computing device, whereininsertion of the mobile computing device into the receiving apertureenables at least one communication function operated by the mobilecomputing device wherein the mobile computing device disables thecommunication function if the mobile computing device is not insertedwithin the receiving aperture, wherein the removal of the mobilecomputing device from the receiving aperture disables the communicationfunction to limit operation of the mobile computing device by disablingthe mobile computing device from operating the communication functionwhile the mobile computing device is outside of the receiving aperture;wherein the communication function is a phone dialer of the mobilecomputing device, wherein removal of the mobile computing device fromthe receiving aperture disables the phone dialer of the mobile computingdevice to prevent the mobile computing device from dialing a phonenumber to connect to a phone line when the mobile computing device isoutside of the receiving aperture.
 7. A communication system thataccepts a mobile computing device to enable private communicationthrough the mobile computing device, the system comprising: a housingthat accepts the mobile computing device; a receiving aperture withinthe housing, the receiving aperture sized to accept the mobile computingdevice, wherein insertion of the mobile computing device into thereceiving aperture enables at least one communication function operatedby the mobile computing device wherein the mobile computing devicedisables the communication function if the mobile computing device isnot inserted within the receiving aperture, wherein the removal of themobile computing device from the receiving aperture disables thecommunication function to limit operation of the mobile computing deviceby disabling the mobile computing device from operating thecommunication function while the mobile computing device is outside ofthe receiving aperture; wherein the communication function is a networkcommunication of the mobile computing device that allows connection ofthe mobile computing device to a network, wherein removal of the mobilecomputing device from the receiving aperture disables the networkcommunication of the mobile computing device to prevent the mobilecomputing device from connecting to any networks when the mobilecomputing device is outside of the receiving aperture.
 8. Acommunication system that accepts a mobile computing device to enableprivate communication through the mobile computing device, the systemcomprising: a housing that accepts the mobile computing device; areceiving aperture within the housing, the receiving aperture sized toaccept the mobile computing device, wherein insertion of the mobilecomputing device into the receiving aperture enables at least onecommunication function operated by the mobile computing device whereinthe mobile computing device disables the communication function if themobile computing device is not inserted within the receiving aperture,wherein the removal of the mobile computing device from the receivingaperture disables the communication function to limit operation of themobile computing device by disabling the mobile computing device fromoperating the communication function while the mobile computing deviceis outside of the receiving aperture; and a camera of the mobilecomputing device, wherein removal of the mobile computing device fromthe receiving aperture disables operation of the camera to prevent theoperation of the camera when the mobile computing device is outside ofthe receiving aperture.
 9. A communication system that accepts a mobilecomputing device to enable private communication through the mobilecomputing device, the system comprising: a housing that accepts themobile computing device; a receiving aperture within the housing, thereceiving aperture sized to accept the mobile computing device, whereininsertion of the mobile computing device into the receiving apertureenables at least one communication function operated by the mobilecomputing device wherein the mobile computing device disables thecommunication function if the mobile computing device is not insertedwithin the receiving aperture, wherein the removal of the mobilecomputing device from the receiving aperture disables the communicationfunction to limit operation of the mobile computing device by disablingthe mobile computing device from operating the communication functionwhile the mobile computing device is outside of the receiving aperture;wherein the communication function is video conferencing capabilities ofthe mobile computing device, wherein removal of the mobile computingdevice from the receiving aperture disables operation of the videoconferencing capabilities of the mobile computing device to prevent themobile computing device from performing a video conference outside ofthe receiving aperture.